Akin says he'll stay in the race

At least two Republican Senators said he should quit

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August 20, 2012 10:07PM (UTC)

ST. LOUIS — Embattled Missouri Rep. Todd Akin apologized for his televised comments that women’s bodies are able to prevent pregnancies in "a legitimate rape" situation. But he refused to heed calls to abandon his bid for the Senate.

Akin appeared on former presidential candidate Mike Huckabee’s radio show Monday, saying his comments were wrong.

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During the primary campaign, Akin enhanced his standing with TV ads in which Huckabee praised him as "a courageous conservative" and "a Bible-based Christian" who "supports traditional marriage" and "defends the unborn."

Calls for Akin’s exit from the race grew today, with at least two Republican senators — Scott Brown of Massachussets and Ron Johnson of Wisconsin — saying Akin should depart.

Akin said he’s not a quitter and would continue the race against incumbent Democratic Sen. Claire McCaskill.

Alex Halperin

Alex Halperin is news editor at Salon. You can follow him on Twitter @alexhalperin.